Anti-Inflammatory and Antiarthritic Activity Properties of Euphorbia hirta Methanol Extract

Abstract

Euphorbia hirta, commonly known as asthma-plant, is recognized as a tropical weed likely originating from India. It is reported to possess numerous therapeutic properties, including but not limited to antiasthmatic, antidiabetic, anticancer, wound healing, gastrointestinal, diuretic, antiparasitic, immunological, antioxidant, antimicrobial, sedative, anxiolytic, antiepileptic, analgesic, antipyretic, antihistaminic, “Protective effects on the liver, galactagogue activity, inhibition of angiotensin-converting enzyme, and anti-thirst properties.”This study focused on the methanolic extract of the whole plant to analyse the presence of various phytochemicals and assess its anti-inflammatory effects via protein denaturation assay, as well as its antiarthritic properties through hypotonicity-induced haemolysis and heat-induced haemolysis assays. The plant extract was tested across several concentrations ranging from 100 to 500mg/ml) in bioassays to validate its anti-inflammatory and antiarthritic capabilities. Diclofenac sodium (100 mg/ml) served as the reference standard drug in this study. Qualitative phytochemical screening of the methanolic extract of Euphorbia hirta revealed the presence of various bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, glycosides, phenolic compounds, tannins, alkaloids, terpenoids, and sterols.